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Player Development Pathway

From good to great

Melbourne City Football School provides a platform for players as young as 5 years old to develop and progress through a performance pathway that extends right through to the professional tier.

Whether your child is playing for fun or to develop their skills and ability to perform at a high level – we have a platform suitable to challenge them appropriately.

Learn more about the journey your child could take below.

A clear pathway for all

our program at a glance

City Football School
Boys & Girls (Ages 5 – 14)

City Football School is for boys and girls, aged between 5 – 14 years old and all ability levels. Our program will support players individual development, improving their techniques and increasing confidence on the ball. Whether your child is playing football for the first time or wanting to take on additional training to accelerate their learning, our program will provide them with an opportunity to play, develop and have fun.

City development Squad
Boys & Girls (Ages 8-14) – Invitation only

The City Development Squad program is the next step for young players transitioning from the Football Schools program. Designed for children aged 8-14, this program exposes players to new tactical and technical challenges in a supportive and engaging environment. It’s an exciting opportunity to grow and develop their skills while exploring the game in new ways, all without the pressure of higher-level competition. This program focuses on building confidence and understanding, encouraging players to push themselves and take on new challenges as they continue their football journey.

City Select Squad
Boys & Girls (8 – 14) – Invitation only

The City Select Squad program offers players aged 8–14 a unique opportunity to advance their football development following the City methodology. Designed for those ready to embrace a higher level of intensity, this program provides advanced tactical and technical training in a more competitive setting. Participants encounter a range of new challenges – including tougher opposition – that encourage them to push beyond their comfort zones. This program helps players continue to develop their skills and understanding of the game while thriving in a supportive, growth-focused environment.

City elite Squad
Boys only (8 – 14) – Invitation only

The City Elite Squad program stands as the top tier of training within City Football School, offering a highly demanding and competitive environment for players aged 8–14. In this setting, participants are held to elevated standards both on and off the pitch, with an emphasis on advanced tactical, technical, and physical development. Players are consistently challenged to refine their skills, sharpen decision-making under pressure, and adopt a disciplined, professional mindset. Serving as a pivotal step within the broader pathway, the Elite Squads program helps prepare aspiring players for the higher levels that lie ahead, pushing them to excel in every training session and competition.

City Academy
Boys Only (ages 13+) – Trial

The City Academy is an elite development program designed for boys aged 13 and older, offering a high-caliber performance environment as they transition from the development phase into more competitive stages of their football journey. Each season, a trial process is conducted to identify talented players, with a particular focus on those progressing from the City Elite Squads. Through comprehensive training and dedicated support, the Academy empowers participants to refine their skills, fulfill their potential, and work towards their aspirations of playing professionally.

A-League First Team
Men & Women

The aim and summit of our player development pathway. Providing a journey from junior football through to the professional environments. Providing boys from our Senior Academy and Girls Select Squad program an opportunity to train and development in First Team settings and compete at the highest level of football in Australia.